Sandra E. McKown

Sandra E. McKown, a cherished member of her family and community, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on May 23, 1937, in Lafayette, Indiana, Sandy was a warm and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and dear friend, and faithful Christian. She was a long-time member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas, where she found joy in her faith and fellowship.

Sandy earned her bachelor’s degree from Wichita State University, where she was an active member of the Delta Gamma Sorority. Her professional career included working as a secretary for new accounts at Fourth National Bank. However, it was her steadfast commitment to her family and community that defined her legacy.

Throughout her life, Sandy nurtured her love for reading, cooking, baking, and playing cards, often finding time for her hobbies while engaging in her roles as a devoted mother and grandmother. Sundays were especially precious to her, as she delighted in singing church hymns with friends and family, fostering a sense of unity and joy in her everyday life.

Sandy's proudest accomplishments were rooted in her involvement in her children's lives. She made significant contributions to her community, including her active participation at church and at her children’s school. Sandy was an enthusiastic supporter of their endeavors, serving as a den mother for Cub Scouts and engaging in Little League activities, exemplifying her unwavering support through various extracurricular groups and sports teams.

Sandy is survived by her beloved children: Michael D. McKown, Gregory K. McKown, and Christy L. Starks, along with nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who continue to carry forward the love and values she instilled in them.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Larry L. McKown, her father, Alfred B. Kirchhoff, her mother, Doris M. Kirchhoff, her sister, Judith L. Schrag, and her brother, David A. Kirchhoff. 

A memorial service to honor Sandy’s life will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church on Sunday, September 1, 2024, beginning at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Holy Cross Lutheran School, 600 N. Greenwich Rd., Wichita, KS 67206. 

Sandy McKown will be remembered for her unparalleled love for her family, her dedication to her church and community, and her warm, inviting spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew her.